Endoscope and method of use

ABSTRACT

Disclosed herein are endoscope assemblies, and more particularly endoscopes with a working channel for use in hysteroscopy, and methods of use thereof. Devices and systems related to an integrated hysteroscopic treatment system including an endoscopic viewing system, a fluid management system, a resecting device and a controller for operating all the systems. Also disclosed are integrated hysteroscopic treatment systems that include an endoscopic viewing system, a fluid management system, a resecting device and a controller for operating all the systems.

RELATED APPLICATION INFORMATION

The present application is a non-provisional of U.S. Provisional Application Nos. 62/571,088 filed on Oct. 11, 2017; 62/572,268 filed on Oct. 13, 2017; and 62/573,541 filed on Oct. 17, 2017. This application is also related to PCT/US2018/055428 filed on Oct. 11, 2018. The entirety of each of which are incorporated by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to an integrated hysteroscopic treatment system which includes an endoscopic viewing system, a fluid management system, a resecting device and a controller for operating all the systems.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Additional aspects of the invention will become clear from the following description of illustrative embodiments and from the attached drawings, in which:

FIG. 1A is a perspective view of components of a hysteroscopic treatment system corresponding to the invention, including an endoscopic viewing system, a fluid management system and a resecting device.

FIG. 1B is a perspective view of the endoscopic viewing system and a schematic view of the fluid management system of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 2A is a perspective view of the endoscopic viewing system of FIG. 1B from a different angle.

FIG. 2B is perspective view of the endoscopic viewing system of FIG. 2A showing a single-use disposable endoscope component separated from a re-usable handle component.

FIG. 3 is a view of a handle component, which shows an electrical connector that interfaces with a projecting electrical connector of a hub of an endoscope component.

FIG. 4 is perspective view of the endoscopic viewing system of FIG. 2A showing a finger-actuated control panel.

FIG. 5 is cut-away side view of the endoscopic viewing system of FIG. 2A showing a sterile and non-sterile fields of the components.

FIG. 6A is an enlarged perspective view of the distal end of the endoscope shaft assembly showing a working channel with a distal channel portion in a reduced cross-sectional configuration for introduction into a patient's body.

FIG. 6B is another view of the distal end of the endoscope shaft assembly of FIG. 6A showing the distal working channel portion in am expanded cross-sectional configuration when a tool shaft is introduced though the working channel.

FIG. 7 is another view of the distal end of the endoscope shaft assembly of FIG. 6B showing image the distal working channel portion in am expanded cross-sectional sensor and lens stack.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a partially disassembled endoscope component of the system of FIGS. 1A-2B showing a dedicated pressure sensing channel and disposable pressure sensor.

FIG. 9A is another perspective view of a partially disassembled endoscope component of the system of FIGS. 1A-2B showing inflow and outflow channels in a channel housing and a flex circuit coupled to the image sensor and the pressure sensor.

FIG. 9B is a perspective view similar to that of FIG. 9A with the channel housing removed to show the inflow and outflow channels in the shaft assembly.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of components of the fluid management system of FIG. 1A.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the handle portion of the resecting device of FIG. 1A showing the re-usable handpiece in the hub of the cutting component.

FIG. 12 is a view in the resecting device of FIG. 11 with the cutting component detached from the handpiece.

FIG. 13 is an enlarged perspective view of the working end of the resecting device of FIGS. 1A and 11 with the inner sleeve separated from the outer sleeve showing an aperture arrangement in the outer sleeve.

FIG. 14A is a schematic view of a working end of another resection device similar to that of FIGS. 1A and 11 showing an inner sleeve with a cutting window and opposing apertures in a first window-open position.

FIG. 14B is another view similar to that of FIG. 14A showing the inner sleeve and cutting window in a second position.

FIG. 14C is a view similar to that of FIGS. 14A-14B showing the inner sleeve and cutting window in a third window-closed position.

FIG. 15A illustrates an initial step in a method of using the endoscope component of FIGS. 1A-2B in a hysteroscopy.

FIG. 15B illustrates a subsequent step of the hysteroscopic method of FIG. 15A wherein a resection device is introduced through the endoscope shaft which stretches the distal elastomeric portion as shown in FIG. 6A and the resection device is positioned for removal of a uterine polyp.

FIG. 16A is a side view of a working end of an endoscope shaft similar to that of FIG. 6A except with a distal section that may be articulated, with FIG. 16A showing the endoscope distal section in a first straight configuration for trans-cervical introduction.

FIG. 16B is another view of the working end of the endoscope shaft of FIG. 16A showing the distal section in an articulated configuration for use following trans-cervical introduction.

FIG. 16C is another view similar to that of FIG. 16BA showing the shaft of a resecting device introduced through the working channel in the endoscope shaft.

FIG. 17A is a view of the front side of a tubing cassette for use with the fluid management system shown in FIGS. 1A, 1B, 10 and 18.

FIG. 17B is a view of the back side of the tubing cassette of FIG. 17A showing a transducer membrane.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a base unit of carrying the fluid management system as in FIGS. 1A and 10 showing encoder type motors peristaltic pump roller assemblies.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view of an optical sound of the invention for coupling the endoscope handle component of FIGS. 2A-2B.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of another variation of an optical sound similar to that of FIG. 19 including irrigation flow channels therein for coupling to the fluid management system of FIGS. 1A-1B.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

FIG. 1A illustrates a hysteroscopic treatment system 50 corresponding to the invention which comprises multiple components including an endoscopic viewing system 100, a fluid management system 105 and a resection device 110 that are all operated by a controller 115 in a base unit 118 with integrated software algorithms configured to operate all the systems and subsystems.

More in particular, the endoscopic viewing system 100 of FIGS. 1A, 1B, 2A and 2B includes a re-usable handle component 120 with a finger-actuated control pad 122 and a disposable endoscope component 125 that carries a distal electronic imaging sensor 128. The fluid management system 105 includes a first peristaltic inflow pump 140A and second peristaltic outflow pump 140B, a fluid source 145 and fluid collection reservoir 148 together with a fluid weight measurement subsystem. The resection device 110 includes a re-usable handpiece 150 with a motor drive 155 and a disposable cutting component 160 for resecting tissue in a hysteroscopic procedure, for example, used for resecting uterine polyps. Each of the systems and subsystems will be described in more detail below.

Endoscopic Viewing System

Referring to FIGS. 1B, 2A and 2B, it can be seen that the endoscopic viewing system 100 includes a handle component 120 and a detachable single-use endoscope component 125. The endoscope shaft assembly 162 has a straight proximal portion 165 that extends about a central longitudinal axis 166. The shaft includes a distal tip section 170 that is offset from the longitudinal axis 166. A shaft transition section 172 extends at an angle between the straight proximal shaft portion 165 and the offset distal tip section 170. The imaging sensor 128 is disposed at the distal end of the offset tip section 170. As can be seen in FIGS. 2A-2B, the endoscope component 125 has a working channel 175 extending therethrough which will be described in more detail below. In one variation, endoscope shaft assembly 162 has a diameter ranging between 4 mm and 10 mm with an overall length configured for use in hysteroscopy. More commonly, the shaft diameter is from 5 mm to 6 mm in diameter.

In one variation, the endoscope component 125 has a hub 176 that is adapted for sliding, detachable engagement with the handle component 120 as can be best seen in FIG. 2B. The endoscope shaft assembly 162 extends distally from the hub 176 and the angled transition section 172 and distal tip section 170 are oriented in a superior or upward direction relative to the hub 176. As can be seen in FIG. 2B, the hub 176 carries a projecting electrical connector 178 that is adapted to couple to a mating electrical connector 180 in the handle component 120 that can be best seen in FIG. 3. In some variations, the endoscope shaft assembly 162 may be rotated relative to the hub 176 (not shown in FIGS. 2A-2B). While FIGS. 2A-2B illustrates that the endoscope component 125 is configured for axial sliding engagement with the handle component 120, it should be appreciated that the angled pistol grip portion 182 of the handle component 120 could plug into the endoscope component 125 in a different arrangement, such as a male-female threaded connector aligned with the axis 184 of the angled grip portion 182. As will be described below, the endoscope component 125 comprises a sterile device for use in the sterile field, while the handle component 120 may not be sterilized and is typically adapted for use for use in a non-sterile field. A cable 188 extends from the handle to an imaging processor 410, controller 115 and power source described further below (FIGS. 1A-1B).

As can be seen in FIGS. 1A, 1B and 2B, the endoscope component 125 includes fluid inflow tubing 190A and fluid outflow tubing 190B that communicate with the fluid management system 105 which is further described below and shown generally in FIGS. 1A-1B. As can be understood from FIGS. 2B and 9A, the endoscope hub 176 can consist of two injection molded plastic shell elements 192 a and 192 b, and FIG. 9A shows one side element removed to the interior of the hub 176. It can be seen that both the inflow tubing 190A and outflow tubing 190B are coupled to an injection-molded flow channel housing 194 in the hub 176 that is fixed to the proximal end 195 of the endoscope shaft assembly 162. FIG. 9B is a cut-away view similar to that of FIG. 9A with the housing 194 removed to show that inflow tubing 190A communicates with an open space or flow channel 198 extending through the endoscope shaft assembly 162 that is outward from the thin-wall sleeve 200 that defines the working channel 175 therein. The flow channel 198 can also be seen in FIGS. 6A-6B at its distal termination 202 in the endoscope shaft assembly 162. As can be understood from FIG. 9B, the outflow tubing 190B communicates with a proximal end 204 of sleeve 200 and working channel 175 which also can be seen in FIGS. 6A-6B. In a method of use that will be described below, the endoscope shaft assembly 162 can be navigated through a patient's endocervical canal with the inflow and outflow pumps 140A and 140 B (see FIGS. 1A-1B) operating to provide continuous irrigation to the distal tip of the endoscope component 125 together with endoscopic viewing by means of the image sensor 128. Such a variation will thus allow fluid inflows through channel 198 and fluid outflows through the working channel 175.

Now turning to FIGS. 6A-6B, the endoscope shaft assembly 162 has a small insertion profile or configuration that consists of the outer diameter of the shaft assembly which includes the proximal straight section 165, the angled section 172 that is relatively short as will be described further below and the distal section 170 (see FIG. 6A). Of particular interest, referring to FIG. 6B, the distal portion of the endoscope shaft assembly 162 includes a working channel portion 175′ that is re-configurable between a first smaller cross-section as shown in FIG. 6A for accommodating fluid outflows and a second larger cross-section as shown in FIG. 6B for accommodating a shaft of the resecting device 110 (FIG. 1A) or another similar tool shaft.

In one variation shown in FIGS. 2B and 6B, it can be seen that the sleeve 200 that defines the working channel 175 extends in a straight configuration through the endoscope component 125 from its proximal end 205 to its open distal termination 208. As can be seen in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the distal end 212 of sleeve 200 has a superior surface 214 that is straight and rigid. The working channel sleeve 200 has an inferior or lower sleeve portion 215 that is flexible and in one variation has a living hinge portion 218 below sidewall cut-outs 220 a and 220 b in the sleeve 200. Further, the distal end of the endoscope component 125 includes an elastomeric sleeve 225 that surrounds the angled shaft portion 172 and the distal shaft section 170 as well as a distal portion of the proximal straight shaft 165. Thus, as can be seen in FIG. 6A, the elastomeric sleeve 225 has sufficient elastic strength to collapse or constrict the working channel portion 175′ to the smaller cross-section as seen in FIG. 6A.

As can be seen in FIG. 6A, the lower sleeve portion 215 includes a sleeve wall 226 with sufficient curvature to maintain an open pathway through the working channel 175 when the elastomeric sleeve 225 constricts the working channel portion 175′ which thereby always provides an open fluid outflow pathway. For example, the sleeve wall 226 can have the diameter as a proximal portion of sleeve 200 and extend over a radial angle ranging from 30° to 90°. While the lower sleeve portion 215 shown in FIG. 6A comprises a portion of the wall of metal sleeve 200, in another variation, the flexible lower sleeve portion 215 may be any bendable plastic material or a combination of plastic and metal.

FIG. 6B next shows the working channel portion 175′ in its second expanded configuration as when a physician inserts an elongated tool shaft 230 (phantom view) through the working channel 175. Such a tool shaft 230 will initially slide along the hinge portion 218 of the lower sleeve portion 215 and then stretch the elastomeric sleeve 225 to open distal working channel portion 175′ to allow the tool shaft 230 to extend through the working channel. In other words, the elastomeric sleeve 225 will be stretched or deformed to a tensioned position as shown in FIG. 6B as a tool shaft 230 is inserted through the distal working channel portion 175′. When the tool shaft 230 is withdrawn from the working channel portion 175′, the elastomeric sleeve 225 will return from the tensioned position of FIG. 6B to the repose or non-tensioned position of FIG. 6A to return the working channel portion 175′ to the constricted configuration FIG. 6A.

In general, the endoscope component 125 corresponding to the invention allows for the use of an image sensor 128 having a large diagonal dimension relative to the insertion profile or diameter of the endoscope shaft assembly 162 while at the same time providing a working channel 175 that has a large working channel diameter WCD relative to the insertion profile or diameter of the endoscope shaft assembly 162. More in particular, the endoscope component 125 comprises a shaft assembly 162 having a shaft diameter SD extending to a distal shaft section 170, an image sensor 128 with a diagonal dimension DD carried by the distal shaft section 170 and a working channel 175 having a diameter WCD extending through the shaft assembly 162, wherein the working channel portion 175′ in the distal end of the shaft assembly 162 is adjustable in shape to accommodate a tool shaft introduced therethrough and wherein the combination or the sensor's diagonal dimension DD and the working channel diameter WCD is greater than the shaft diameter SD (see FIG. 6B). In a variation, the sensor diagonal dimension DD is greater than 50% of the shaft diameter SD or greater than 60% of the shaft diameter. In a variation, the working channel diameter WCD is greater than 30% of the shaft diameter, greater than 40% of the shaft diameter or greater than 50% of the shaft diameter. In other words, the working channel portion 175′ in the distal end is adjustable between a first cross-sectional dimension and a second cross-section dimension. In the variation of FIGS. 6A-6B, the working channel portion 175′ in the distal region of the endoscope shaft assembly 162 is adjustable between an a partially constricted shape and a non-constricted shape.

In one variation, referring to FIG. 6A, the distal section 170 of the endoscope shaft assembly 162 has an axial dimension D1 ranging from 5 mm to 20 mm. Also referring to FIG. 6A, the angled shaft section 172 extends over a similar axial dimension D2 ranging from 5 mm to 20 mm. Still referring to FIG. 6A, the central axis 235 of distal shaft section 170 can be parallel to and offset from the longitudinal axis 166 of the straight shaft section 165 by a distance ranging from 1 mm to 8 mm.

Now turning to FIG. 7, the image sensor 128 is carried in a housing 236 that also carries a lens assembly 240 as is known in the art. The sensor and lens housing 236 is then carried in a thin wall sleeve 238 that comprises the distal endoscope section 170. Further, one or more light emitters, for example, LEDs indicated 244A and 244B carried on either side of the image sensor housing 236. Of particular interest, the distalmost surface 245 of the lens assembly 240 and the LEDs 244A and 244B is disposed distally outward from the distal end 246 of the thin-wall sleeve 238 as shown in FIG. 7. It has been found that providing such a distalmost surface 245 of the lens assembly and the LEDs outwardly from the shaft sleeve 238 improves lighting from the LEDs 244A and 244B as well as improving the field of view of the image sensor 128. The distance indicated at D3 in FIG. 7 can range from 0.2 mm to 2.0 mm.

Now referring to FIGS. 7 and 8, another aspect of the invention comprises a dedicated fluid pressure sensing channel 250 that extends through a thin wall sleeve 252 in the endoscope shaft assembly 162. As can be seen in FIGS. 6A-6B, the distal end 254 of the pressure sensing sleeve 252 is open in the distal surface of the endoscope component 125. Referring to FIG. 8, the proximal end 256 of the pressure sensing channel 250 extends to the housing 194 in the hub 176 to communicate with a disposable pressure sensor 270. The pressure sensor 270 has electrical leads coupled thereto through the electrical connector 178 in hub 176 to thereby send electrical signals indicating pressure to the controller 115 (FIG. 1A) as will be described further below. Thus, in one aspect, the disposable endoscope component carries a single-use pressure sensor 270 coupled by a detachable connector to a remote controller 115.

In one variation, referring to FIG. 8, the thin wall sleeve 252 consists of a hydrophobic material, which can be any suitable polymer such as PFTE, having an interior diameter ranging from 0.25 mm to 2.5 mm. Often, the inner diameter of the thin wall sleeve 252 is between 0.5 mm and 1.5 mm. It has been found that a hydrophobic surface in the pressure sensing channel 250 will prevent the migration of fluid into the channel and thereby trap an air column in the channel communicating with the pressure sensor 270. The compressibility of the air column in the pressure sensing channel 250 is not significantly affect the sensed pressure since the channel diameter is very small. In another variation, the metal sleeve 252 can be coated with a hydrophobic surface or an ultrahydrophobic surface.

Now turning to FIGS. 6A and 9B, the image sensor 128 and LEDs 244A and 244B are connected to an elongated flex circuit 275 that extends from electrical connector 178 in hub 176 through the endoscope shaft assembly 162. It has been found that only a flex circuit 275 is capable of carrying a sufficient number of electrical leads to the image sensor 128, the LEDs and the pressure sensor 270 to provide for system operation, wherein the number of electrical leads can range from 10 to 100. Further, the flex circuit 275 can extend through the shaft assembly 162 with an interior space that also function as the fluid flow channel since the flex circuit 275 adequately insulates all the electrical leads.

Handle Component of the Endoscopic Viewing System

Now referring to FIGS. 2B and 3, it can be seen that the handle component 120 has an angled pistol grip portion 182 with an axis 184 that is angled from 10° to 90° away from the longitudinal axis 166 of the endoscope's proximal shaft portion 165. The grip portion 182 includes a control pad 122 that carries actuator buttons for operating all the functions of the treatment system, for example, including (i) operating the fluid management system 105, (ii) capturing images or videos from sensor 128, (iii) adjusting light intensity from the LEDs 244A and 244B, etc. The interior of the handle component 120 also can carry an image processor. or such an image processor may be located in the control unit or base unit 118 shown in FIG. 1A.

FIG. 3 is a view of the handle component 120 from a different angle which shows the electrical connector 180 that interfaces with the projecting electrical connector 178 of the hub 176 of the endoscope component 125. FIG. 3 further shows receiving channels 288 a and 288 b that receive projecting rail elements 290 a and 290 b of the endoscope hub 176 as can be seen in FIG. 2B. In FIG. 3, it also can be seen that the grip portion 182 has a recessed channel 295 therein that is adapted to receive and lock in place the inflow and outflow tubing 190A and 190B so as to integrate the tubing set with the pistol grip 182 during use. This feature is important so that the inflow and outflow tubing will not interfere with operation of the endoscope component 125 or the resecting device 110 introduced through the working channel 175 as will be described in more detail below.

Now turning to FIG. 4, the enlarged view of the assembled handle component 120 and endoscope component 125 shows the control pad 122 with four actuator buttons or switches which are adapted to operate the system. In one variation, actuator 302 is adapted for turning on and off irrigation, or in other words actuating the fluid management system 105 as will be described further below. Actuator 304 is adapted for image or video capture. In a variation, momentary pressing the actuator 304 will capture a single image and longer pressure on the actuator will operate a video recording.

Actuator or scrolling button 306 has a scrolling function, wherein pressing the scrolling button 306 will cycle through various subsystems that then can be further adjusted by the central button or up/down actuator 310, which is adapted for increasing, decreasing or otherwise changing an operating parameter of any selected subsystem. In one example, the scrolling button 306 can be actuated to cycle through the following subsystems and features: (i) fluid inflow/outflow rate from the fluid management system 105; (ii) the set pressure which is to be maintained by fluid management system 105; (iii) fluid deficit alarm which is calculated by the fluid management system 105; (iv) optional selection of still image capture or video capture, and (v) LED light intensity. Then, the physician can activate the central up/down actuator 310 to adjust an operating parameter of the selected subsystem. As will be described further below, the selection of subsystems as well as the real-time operating parameters of each subsystem will be displayed on a video monitor or display 320 as shown in FIG. 1A. Thus, it can be understood that the physician may operate the scrolling button 306 to scroll through and select any subsystem or feature while observing such as selection on the display 320, and then actuate the up/down actuator 310 can adjust an operating parameter which also can be observed on the display 320.

In another aspect of the invention, the controller 115 includes a control algorithm for operating the control pad 122 which provides a jump back to a default condition after the scroll button or actuator 306 has been used by the physician. For example, there is a default condition in which a selected subsystem is actuatable by the central up/down actuator 310. In one variation, the default subsystem is the fluid inflow/outflow rate, which may be the most commonly used subsystems that will be actuated by the physician to control fluid flow into and out of the working space. Thereafter, as described above, the physician may use the scrolling button 306 to select another subsystem for adjustment of an operating parameter. If, however, the physician does not continue to scroll between the various subsystems for a predetermined amount of time, then the control algorithm will jump back to the default subsystem, which may be the fluid inflow/outflow rate. The predetermined amount of time, or timeout, with the control algorithm to jump back to the default condition may be anywhere from 1 second to 10 seconds, more often between 2 seconds and 5 seconds.

Now turning to FIG. 5, a schematic side view of the assembly of the handle component 120 with endoscope component 125 as shown to illustrate the sterile field 315 and the non-sterile field 320 relative to the endoscope assembly. As can be understood, the disposable endoscope component 125 is sterilized and the physician or nurse would remove the component 125 from sterile packaging which would then define a sterile field 315. The endoscope component 125 then would be mated with the handle component 120 which defines the non-sterile field 320. In other variations (not shown), a plastic film or other plastic housing with the beast zero could cover the handle portion 120. FIG. 5 further illustrates a method that would be employed by the physician to insert an elongated tool shaft 328 into the working channel 175 in a manner that would insure the sterility of the tool shaft 328. As can be seen in FIGS. 2A, 2B, 4 and 5, the superior surface 332 of the hub 176 includes a trough or recessed saddle 340 in which the physician can initiate contact with the tool shaft 328 which is indicated by an arrow in FIG. 5 and is numbered as step 1. Thereafter, as indicated by an arrow as step 2, the tool shaft 328 can be guided downward from the saddle 340 into the cone-shaped recess 344 in hub 176 which tapers distally to transition into the open proximal end 205 of the working channel 175. Thereafter, the physician can move the tool shaft 328 axially over the surface of the cone-shaped recess 340 and into and through the working channel 175. By using this method, the physician can be assured that the tool shaft 328 will not contact the non-sterile field 320. In FIGS. 4 and 5, it can be seen that the proximal slanted surface 342 of the hub 176 is substantially in the same plane P (FIG. 4) as the surface 349 of the angled grip portion 182. It should be appreciated that a slanted surface 342′ of the hub 176 can be provided in a plane outward from the surface 349 of the grip 182 to provide further assurance that the tool shaft 328 will not contact the non-sterile field 320.

Base Unit and Fluid Management System

Now turning to FIGS. 1A and 10, the fluid management system 105 can be described in more detail. A rolling stand assembly 400 is provided which includes a base 402 with wheels 404 and a vertical pole assembly indicated at 405. The video display 320 is mounted at the top of the pole assembly 405. A controller base unit or base station 118 is attached to the pole assembly 405 which comprises a housing which contains the system controller 115, a video processor 410 and a 3-phase motor controller/power supply 415 for the resecting device 110 in this motor drive. Further, the base unit 118 carries the inflow and outflow peristaltic pumps 140A and 140B. The controller 115, as the term is used herein, includes processors or controller components for operating the fluid management system 105, the resecting device 110 and all aspects of the endoscopic viewing system 100. The base unit 118 also contains power supplies from the resecting device 110, the fluid management system 105 and the endoscopic viewing system 100.

As can be seen in FIG. 10, the base unit 118 is carried by a bracket 418 that secures the unit to the pole assembly 405. A fluid source, such as a 1 liter saline bag 145 is hung from a first hook 422 a on the inferior surface 424 of the base unit 118. Further, another saline bag or collection reservoir 148 hangs from a second hook 422 b on the inferior surface 425 of the base unit 118 for collecting fluid outflows.

FIGS. 1B and 10 further show a cassette 440 that carries first and second tubing loops 442 a and 442 b that are adapted to engage the roller assemblies of inflow and outflow pumps 140A and 140B. The cassette 440 shown in FIG. 11 includes a transducer membrane 444 (FIG. 1B) as is known in the art for interfacing with a pressure sensor and the surface of the control unit 118 that is engaged after the cassette 440 is locked in place.

In FIGS. 1A and 10, it can be seen that the inflow pump 140A pumps fluid through inflow tubing 190A to the endoscopic viewing component 100. FIG. 10 illustrates that a portion of the inflow tubing indicated at 190A′ extends from the fluid source 145 to the tubing loop 442 a in the cassette 440 that engages the inflow peristaltic pump 140A. The proximal end 448 of the inflow tubing portion 190A′ as a spike for spiking the saline bag or fluid source 145 as is known in the art.

In FIGS. 1A and 10, it can be further seen that the outflow tubing 190B extends from the endoscopic viewing system 100 to the tubing loop 442 b in the cassette 440 that engages the outflow peristaltic pump 140B. Beyond the tubing loop 445 b in the cassette 440, an outflow tubing portion indicated at 190B′ drops downward to a tissue trap 452 where tissue chips are filtered from the fluid outflow in collected. A second outflow tubing portion indicated that 190B″ then extends upward to the collection reservoir 148.

Referring again to FIG. 10, the system includes at least one load sensor for providing weight signals to the controller indicating either the weight of the fluid in the inflow source 145 or the weight of the fluid in the collection reservoir 148 or the weight of the combined fluid inflow source 145 and collection reservoir 148. In one variation shown in FIG. 10, the first load cell 455 a is shown with weighs fluid inflow source 145 in the second load cell 455 b weighs the fluid collection reservoir. The controller 15 then can receive signals from the two load cells 455 a and 455 b to calculate the fluid loss. Further, the signal can be provided when a certain predetermined fluid loss has been observed. Also, the controller 115 can provide an alarm signal when the load so load cell 455 a which weighs the fluid source 145 determines that the fluid source is rated a lower level, which may indicate that an additional saline bag be connected to the fluid management system.

Still referring to FIG. 10, in another variation, the weight management system can use a load cell 460 and the pole assembly 405 wherein telescoping shaft 462 can carry the weight of both the fluid inflow source 145 in the collection reservoir 148 and can be and continues the weigh the assembly in calculate the fluid deficit.

In another aspect of the invention, referring to FIG. 10, the base unit 118 is designed for use in a physician's office in therefore should be compact. In one variation the height of the base unit 118 is less than 18 inches, the width is less than 12 inches and the depth is less than 12 inches. Further, it has been found that the electrical interference caused by the 3-phase motor controller/power source 415 controller is substantial in the sensitivity of the video processor 410 is significant. Therefore, extensive electromagnetic shielding or EM shielding 488 is required between the 3-phase motor controller/power source and the video processor 410. In general, one aspect of the invention comprises providing a video processor within less than 12 inches from a three phase motor power source and controller. In other variations, video processor is less than 8 inches, or less than 6 inches from the 3-phase motor controller/power source.

In general, as shown in FIG. 10, the base unit 118 includes a fluid management system 105 including inflow and outflow peristaltic pumps 140A and 140B, a cassette 440 carrying inflow and outflow tubing loops for engaging the inflow and outflow pumps, a coupled to the base unit 118 are a fluid source 145 comprising a first saline bag and a collection reservoir 148 comprising second saline bag. Further, the base unit 118 carries at least one load sensor intermediate the base unit housing in the first and second saline bag or weighing either or both of the first and second saline bags. A digital readout of the weight of either or both of the saline bag as is provided on the monitor 320 (FIG. 1A) for observation in the recording by the physician or nurse. By this means, the fluid deficit can be calculated.

In another variation, the inflow and outflow pumps of the fluid management system utilize encoder-type motors which can send signals relating to rotation to the controller 115. By this means, the controller 115 can calculate the volume of fluid inflows provided by a pump 140A into the working space in the patient's body. Thus, fluid inflows can be calculated either by a load cell or by signals from an encoder-type motor to the controller 115.

Tissue Resecting Device

Now referring to FIGS. 1A, 11 and 12, the tissue resection device 110 comprises a re-usable handpiece 150 that carries a motor drive 155 together with the detachable cutting component 160. An electrical power cable 502 extends from the handpiece 150 to a the 3-phase motor controller/power supply in the base unit 118. As can be seen in FIG. 11, the handpiece 150 has a housing 505 with a channel 508 in lower portion thereof to receive and lock therein the outflow tubing portion indicated at 512. In FIG. 1A, it can be seen that outflow tubing 512 extends to a branch connector 515 that couples tubing 512 to the outflow tubing 190B extending back to the outflow peristaltic pump 140B in the base unit 118. The outflow tubing 512 as shown in FIG. 1A is a pinch valve 518 for closing off the outflow tubing 512. In FIG. 1A, it can be understood that the primary outflow tubing 190A extends to the endoscopic viewing system 100 through the branch connector 515 into tubing portion 520 to the hub 176 of the endoscope component 125 as described above. Thus, the endoscopic viewing assembly 100 can be used for both inflows and outflows during insertion of the endoscope shaft assembly 162 into the patient, with the pinch valve 518 closing off the outflow tubing 512 since the resecting device 110 is not yet in use (FIG. 1A). After the endoscope shaft assembly 162 has been navigated to a working space in a patient's body, and the resecting device 110 has been introduced through the working channel 175 of the endoscope component 125, the pinch valve 518 can be opened so that fluid outflows are provided through the resecting device 110 rather than through the working channel 175 of the endoscope component 125.

Now turning to FIG. 12, it can be seen that the cutting component 160 has a proximal hub 540 that is adapted for detachably coupling to the handle 150. An elongated shaft assembly 545 extends distally from the hub 540 to a working end 548 (FIG. 1A). In one variation, elongated shaft assembly 545 comprises an outer sleeve 550 with a distal window 552 and a rotating inner sleeve 555 with a window 558 (FIG. 13). Such a type of tubular cutter is known in the art wherein the rotating inner sleeve 555 cuts tissue that interfaces with window 552 in the outer sleeve 550 as the inner sleeve window 558 with teeth 560 rotates at high speed.

As can be seen in FIGS. 11 and 12, the hub 540 of the resecting component 160 is coupled to a rotating collar 570 which is fixed to the shaft assembly 545 so that the physician can rotate the shaft assembly 545 and working end 548 to any rotational orientation for cutting tissue while maintaining the handle 150 in an upright position. The handle 150 includes an actuator button 575 for actuating the motor drive 155 to rotate the inner sleeve 555 relative to the outer sleeve 550 to thereby cut tissue.

Referring to FIG. 12, the tissue resecting device 110 can have a shaft assembly 5456 with a diameter ranging from 2 mm to 6 mm, in is more often between 3 mm and 5 mm. The shaft 545 has a diameter and length for cooperating with the working channel 175 of the endoscopic viewing system 100 as shown in FIG. 1A.

Now turning to FIG. 13, the distal working end 548 of the cutting component, and more particularly, the outer and inner sleeves, 550 and 555, are shown separated to show particular features that correspond to the invention. In FIG. 13, it can be seen that the outer sleeve 550 is in has an aperture arrangement or opening 572 in the surface that opposes the window 562. Typically, in a high-speed rotating tubular cutter that is used in hysteroscopy with a fluid management system, the motor controller includes algorithms for stopping rotation of the inner sleeve 555 relative to the outer sleeve 550 so that the windows 558 and 562 are aligned when the inner sleeve 555 stopped rotating. In such prior art devices, various sensors and mechanisms have been developed to stop rotation of the inner sleeve 555 in a predetermined position with the inner and outer windows 558, 562 being oriented to be at least partially aligned and open. Such algorithms are complex and may not function reliably in all operating environments. The reason for needing such a controller algorithm for stopping rotation of the inner sleeve 555 with windows 558 and 562 aligned is to ensure that the fluid management system continues to operate to maintain a set pressure in the body cavity when the resecting device is (i) operating at high speed or (ii) when the resecting device is paused in operation. The control algorithms of the fluid management system for maintaining a set pressure in a body cavity typically use a PID controller or a feedback control system as is known in the art. During operation of a resecting device with a rotating inner sleeve as shown in FIG. 13, the fluid management system controller can continuously monitor fluid outflows through the windows 558 and 562 when aligned since the sleeves are only in a window-closed position for a very brief interval as the inner sleeve 555 rotates. The stop algorithm is then used to stop rotation of the inner sleeve 555 in a window-open position and the controller again will monitor continuous fluid flows through the system to maintain the set pressure. However, if the inner sleeve 555 stopped rotating in a window-closed position, the actual pressure in the body cavity would immediately increase and the control algorithm could react by slowing or stopping the pumps but with no fluid outflows in the window-closed position, the PID controller could not operate which could increase actual pressure in the body cavity to an unsafe level or cause significant fluctuations in pressure in the working space when the resecting device is re-activated to provide fluid outflows.

In one aspect of the present invention, an opening or aperture arrangement 572 is disposed in a wall of outer sleeve 550 opposing the open window 562. In general, the opening 572 allows for outflows through the lumen 574 in the inner sleeve when it stops in the window closed position. Thus, providing an outflow opening 572 in the outer sleeve was the fluid management control system and PID feedback controller to operate and maintain the set pressure no matter whether the inner sleeve 555 is stopped in a window-open position or window-closed position or any intermediate position. In order to provide adequate flow through the outflow opening 572 in the window-closed position, it has been found that the area of opening 572 should be at least 10% of the area of window 558 in outer sleeve and more often at least 20% of the area of the window 558 in outer sleeve 555. In a variation, the area of opening 572 is at least 30% of the area of window 558 in outer sleeve 555. In FIG. 13, the opening 572 in the outer sleeve 550 is shown as a single elongated shape, but it should be appreciated that the opening can comprise a plurality of openings which can be any shape such as elongated slot or slots, an oval shape, round openings or the like.

Now turning to FIGS. 14A to 14C, another variation of working end 578 is shown that is adapted to solve the same problem as the variation of FIG. 13. FIGS. 14A-14C are schematic views of a working end 578 of a tubular cutter with the outer sleeve 580 having window 582 therein. The inner sleeve 585 has cutting window 588 that for convenience is shown without cutting teeth. In this variation, it can be seen that inner sleeve 585 has a plurality of outflow openings 590 therein that extend longitudinally and are space apart around wall of the inner sleeve 585 opposing window 588. In this variation, the aperture arrangement can have from 1 to 20 or more openings. Again, it can be seen in FIG. 14C that when the working end 578 is in the window-closed position, the outflow openings 590 will still allow for fluid outflows through the interior channel 592 of the inner sleeve 585 to ensure that the PID controller or other control system still can function properly since there is a fluid flow through the device. The area of the apertures or openings again is greater than 10% of the outer sleeve window, greater than 20% or greater than 30% of the area of the window 582 in the outer sleeve 580.

In another aspect of the invention, the resecting device 110 comprises a tubular cutter wherein a windowed inner sleeve rotates relative to the outer sleeve between window-open in window-closed positions, and wherein a cooperating fluid management system provides of fluid outflows through a central channel in the tubular cutter and wherein the fluid outflow in the window-closed position is at least 10% of the fluid outflow through the tubular cutter in the window-open position under the same fluid management settings. Again, the fluid outflows in the window-closed position are provided through at least one aperture or opening in either the outer sleeve, the inner sleeve or combination of both the inner and outer sleeves. In another variation the fluid outflows in the window-closed position is at least 20% at least 30% of fluid outflows in the window-open position.

FIG. 15A illustrates a variation of a method to carry out a planned hysteroscopic procedure, such as a tissue resection procedure which is shown as a polypectomy. In FIG. 15A, the patient's uterus 602 and uterine cavity 605 are shown with a polyp 608 therein. The cervical canal is indicated at 610. Initially, the physician connects the endoscope component 125 to the handle component 120 and then couples the inflow and outflow tubing 190A and 190B to the endoscope component 125 (see FIGS. 2A and 2B). Thereafter, the physician can actuate the fluid management system 105 to provide a fluid inflow through the endoscope shaft assembly 162 as well as outflows through the working channel 175 in the shaft assembly. The fluid management system 105 then will provide a circulating flow through the patient's cervical canal 610 and uterine cavity 605 and will also maintain a set fluid pressure in the uterine cavity after it is filled with distension fluid.

Thereafter, the distal tip 615 of the endoscope component 125 is introduced into and through the cervical canal 610. In FIG. 15A, it can be understood that the offset tip section 170 of the endoscope shaft assembly 162 can be introduced through the cervical canal 610 and the tissue will deform around the tip section 170 and angled section 172 such that dilation of the endocervical canal 610 beyond the diameter of the shaft assembly 162 is not required.

In FIG. 15B, the distal tip 615 of the endoscope shaft assembly 162 is disposed within the uterine cavity 605. As can be seen in FIG. 15B, the introduction of the shaft 545 of the cutting component 160 (FIG. 12) through the working channel 175 in the endoscope causes the distal portion of the working channel 175 to open and stretch the elastomeric sleeve to 225 as shown in FIG. 6B to thus provide a straight passageway through the endoscope shaft assembly 162 and into the uterine cavity 605. Thereafter, the endoscope shaft assembly 162 can be moved axially inward and outward in the uterine cavity 605 and also angled from side to side. FIG. 15B then shows the working end 548 of the cutting component 160 (see FIG. 1A) positioned near the polyp 608 ready to activate rotation of the inner sleeve 555 of the cutter to resect the polyp (see FIG. 13). FIG. 15B also illustrates that the field of view FOV of the image sensor 128 and lens assembly 240 is oriented so that the working end 548 of the resection device 110 is central in such a field of view FOV.

As can be understood from FIG. 15B, the short axial length of the distal endoscope tip section 170 and angled section 172 allows for the shaft assembly 162 to be moved proximally in the cervical canal 610 and thus will allow the tip of the resection device to cut tissue very close to the internal os 626 of the uterine cavity 605.

Now turning to FIGS. 16A-16C, another variation of the working end 650 of an endoscope similar to the endoscope component 125 of FIG. 2B is shown. The working end 650 consists of a deflectable tip portion 655 that provides for a straight configuration shown in FIG. 16A for introduction through the cervical canal 605 (see FIG. 15A) and thereafter can be articulated to a deflected shape that has a configuration which is the same as the “offset” shape of the working end as shown FIGS. 6A-6B. In FIG. 16 A, it can be seen that an outer sleeve 660 is slotted with first and second slots 662 a and 662 b that allow for deflection of the tip portion 655. Such slotted tube arrangements for the deflection of tubular members are known in the art. In this variation, the distal deflecting portion 655 is adapted to move from the straight shape of FIG. 16A to the deflected shape of FIG. 16B by the proximal movement of the working channel sleeve 670. The working channel sleeve 670 has a passageway 672 therein which is similar to the variation shown in FIGS. 6A-6B. An elastomeric sleeve 675 encases the distal tip portion 655 as described previously. FIG. 16C shows an instrument shaft 678 introduced through the passageway 672 which stretches the elastomeric sleeve 675 around the passageway 672 as described previously and as illustrated in FIG. 6B.

Thus, one aspect of the invention comprises an elongated sleeve assembly with a working end and an image sensor, wherein a distal portion of the elongated sleeve comprises a slotted outer tube 660 which can be articulated from a straight position to a deflected position and wherein the actuation member for articulating the distal outer sleeve portion comprises a non-slotted inner working channel sleeve 670 that can be moved axially relative to the slotted outer sleeve 660.

Now turning to FIGS. 17A, 17B and 18, a cassette 440 of the fluid management system 105 of FIG. 10 is shown in more detail. FIG. 17A shows the cassette 440 from the front side 680 and FIG. 17B shows the cassette from the back side 682 that interfaces with the peristaltic pumps 140A and 140B (FIGS. 10 and 18). The cassette housing 685 comprises a single injection molded part which greatly reduces the cost of manufacturing. It can be seen that the first tubing loop 442 a is adapted for engaging the inflow pump 140A as also shown in FIG. 18. The second tubing loop 442 b in cassette 440 engages the outflow pump 140B. In FIG. 17B, it can be seen that cassette 440 carries a the thin flexible membrane 688 in fluid communication with tubing loop 442 a which functions as a transducer that interfaces with a pressure sensor on the front surface 690 of the base unit 118 (see FIGS. 10 and 18). Thus, the sensed pressure in the inflow line can signal the controller 115 to modulate the inflow and outflow pumps to thereby maintain a set pressure in the uterine cavity. It should be appreciated that a second similar transducer (not shown) can be provided in the cassette 440 to communicate with second tubing loop 442 b and an other pressure sensor in base unit 118 to sense pressure in the outflow line 190B which could be used as an additional pressure signal for controlling the set pressure.

FIG. 18 is an enlarged view of the base unit 118 and the cassette 440. In one variation, the cassette can be manually pushed into place over the inflow and outflow pumps 140A and 140B and then manually locked in place. In another variation, a motor unit (not shown) in the base unit can be used to engage and move the cassette 440 into position over the inflow and outflow pumps and to lock the cassette in place. An additional sensor, such as the Hall sensor in the base unit 118, can detect a magnet in the cassette 440 to provide a signal that the cassette is locked in place. Other types of sensors such as microswitches can be used to sense the cassette 440 being locked in place. In another variation, the cassette 440 and the base unit 118 can be configured with cooperating RFID components to identify the particular cassette that is used and thereafter the controller 115 can operate a particular set of algorithms for maintaining a set pressure that are unique to the cassette.

Still referring to FIG. 18, another feature of the invention provides for closing off an inflow line or an outflow line with a peristaltic pumps 140A or 140B. In one variation, the pump motors 695A and 695B of the inflow and outflow pumps 140A and 140B are encoder type motors which provide signals to the controller 115 of the rotational position of each set of rollers on each peristaltic pump. Thus, a controller algorithm can be provided to stop rotation of a pump roller 696 a or 696 b in a vertical position as shown in FIG. 18 which thus pinches the tubing loop 442 a and/or 442 b to stop fluid flows through the pinched tubing. The ability of the controller 115 to stop fluid flows mechanically using encoder motors may be important for maintaining a set pressure or for other purposes. An another example, such encoder motors in a fluid management system 105 can use a controller algorithm that records rotations of the inflow pump 140A to thereby determine the fluid volume that has been delivered through the system. Such a calculated fluid volume then can be used, in part, to determine fluid deficit. In such a variation, a load cell can be provided to weigh the collected fluid outflows in the collection reservoir 148 which can be subtracted from such a calculated fluid volume delivered to determine the fluid deficit.

FIG. 19 illustrates another device of the invention which is an optical sound 700 which is used for an initial step in a hysteroscopy procedure. A conventional uterine sound is standard OB/GYN instrument that is for dilating the cervical canal as well as measuring the length of the cervical canal and the uterine cavity. Such prior are instruments typically have graduated centimeter markings for measuring the length of the canal or depth of the fundus.

In FIG. 19, the optical sound 700 is adapted for detachable coupling to the handle component 120 of the endoscopic viewing system 100 of FIGS. 1A and 2A-2B. In this variation, the optical sound 700 has a proximal housing 702 and an elongated shaft 705 that carries an imaging sensor 710 and at least one LED 712 in its working end 715. The imaging sensor 710 is similar to the sensor 128 and lens 240 system shown in FIGS. 6A-7. The optical sound 700 includes electrical connector 718 that couples to the receiving connector 180 in handle component 120 (see FIG. 3) such that the image sensor 710 cooperates with the endoscopic viewing system 100 as described previously. In use, the physician then can then use the sound 700 to dilate of the cervical canal under direct endoscopic vision and thereafter navigate within the uterine cavity with endoscopic vision. In FIG. 19, the shaft 705 of the sound 700 carries graduated centimeter markings 722 and also as a malleable working end 715. As can be seen in figure FIG. 19, the proximal housing 702 is without features related to a working channel as in the endoscope component 125 of FIGS. 2A-2B.

FIG. 20 illustrates a variation another variation of an optical uterine sound 750 which is similar to that of FIG. 19, except that the optical sound 750 further includes the inflow and outflow tubing 190A and 190B shown in FIGS. 1B, 2B and 3 coupled to the sound housing 752 and cooperating inflow and outflow channels 755 a and 755 b in shaft 760. The inflow and outflow channels 755 a and 755 b lead to respective inflow and outflow openings 762 a and 762 b in the working end 765 (opening 762 a not visible). As can be understood from FIG. 20, the inflow and outflow tubing 190A and 190B are extend from the optical sound 750 to the fluid management system 105 as shown in FIGS. 1A-1B to provide fluid flows through the sound. Thus, in one aspect of the invention, a uterine sound 750 has an elongated shaft with a malleable working 765 in that carries a distal imaging sensor 710 together with inflow and outflow channels 755 a and 755 b that are connected to a fluid management system 105 for providing irrigation inflows and outflows when the sound is used to dilate a cervical canal and/or measure dimensions of a cervical canal or a uterine cavity.

Although particular embodiments of the present invention have been described above in detail, it will be understood that this description is merely for purposes of illustration and the above description of the invention is not exhaustive. Specific features of the invention are shown in some drawings and not in others, and this is for convenience only and any feature may be combined with another in accordance with the invention. A number of variations and alternatives will be apparent to one having ordinary skills in the art. Such alternatives and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the claims. Particular features that are presented in dependent claims can be combined and fall within the scope of the invention. The invention also encompasses embodiments as if dependent claims were alternatively written in a multiple dependent claim format with reference to other independent claims.

Although particular embodiments of the present invention have been described above in detail, it will be understood that this description is merely for purposes of illustration and the above description of the invention is not exhaustive. Specific features of the invention are shown in some drawings and not in others, and this is for convenience only and any feature may be combined with another in accordance with the invention. A number of variations and alternatives will be apparent to one having ordinary skills in the art. Such alternatives and variations are intended to be included within the scope of the claims. Particular features that are presented in dependent claims can be combined and fall within the scope of the invention. The invention also encompasses embodiments as if dependent claims were alternatively written in a multiple dependent claim format with reference to other independent claims.

Other variations are within the spirit of the present invention. Thus, while the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, certain illustrated embodiments thereof are shown in the drawings and have been described above in detail. It should be understood, however, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form or forms disclosed, but on the contrary, the intention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention, as defined in the appended claims.

The use of the terms “a” and “an” and “the” and similar referents in the context of describing the invention (especially in the context of the following claims) are to be construed to cover both the singular and the plural, unless otherwise indicated herein or clearly contradicted by context. The terms “comprising,” “having,” “including,” and “containing” are to be construed as open-ended terms (i.e., meaning “including, but not limited to,”) unless otherwise noted. The term “connected” is to be construed as partly or wholly contained within, attached to, or joined together, even if there is something intervening. Recitation of ranges of values herein are merely intended to serve as a shorthand method of referring individually to each separate value falling within the range, unless otherwise indicated herein, and each separate value is incorporated into the specification as if it were individually recited herein. All methods described herein can be performed in any suitable order unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context. The use of any and all examples, or exemplary language (e.g., “such as”) provided herein, is intended merely to better illuminate embodiments of the invention and does not pose a limitation on the scope of the invention unless otherwise claimed. No language in the specification should be construed as indicating any non-claimed element as essential to the practice of the invention.

Preferred embodiments of this invention are described herein, including the best mode known to the inventors for carrying out the invention. Variations of those preferred embodiments may become apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art upon reading the foregoing description. The inventors expect skilled artisans to employ such variations as appropriate, and the inventors intend for the invention to be practiced otherwise than as specifically described herein. Accordingly, this invention includes all modifications and equivalents of the subject matter recited in the claims appended hereto as permitted by applicable law. Moreover, any combination of the above-described elements in all possible variations thereof is encompassed by the invention unless otherwise indicated herein or otherwise clearly contradicted by context.

All references, including publications, patent applications, and patents, cited herein are hereby incorporated by reference to the same extent as if each reference were individually and specifically indicated to be incorporated by reference and were set forth in its entirety herein. 

What is claimed is:
 1. An endoscope, comprising: an elongated shaft having a central axis extending from a proximal end to a working end; an image sensor by the working end; and a channel extending from said proximal end to said working end, wherein a distal portion of the channel has a reconfigurable cross-sectional shape with lateral sidewalls of the channel including an elastomeric material.
 2. The endoscope of claim 1 wherein said distal channel portion has an upward and downward sidewall including a non-elastomeric material wherein said elastomeric material of the lateral sidewalls are disposed intermediate the upward and downward sidewalls.
 3. The endoscope of claim 1 wherein said distal channel portion has a first cross-sectional shape with the elastomeric material of the lateral sidewalls in a repose condition and a second larger cross-sectional shape with the elastomeric material of the lateral sidewalls in a stretched condition.
 4. The endoscope of claim 3 wherein said distal channel portion in said first cross-sectional shape is configured to maintain a distal open termination to allow fluid flows therethrough.
 5. The endoscope of claim 4 wherein said distal channel portion in said first cross-sectional shape maintains said distal open termination by projecting portions of said downward sidewall which abut the upward sidewall of said distal channel portion.
 6. The endoscope of claim 4 wherein the elongated shaft extends along a longitudinal axis to an angled section that transitions to said distal section that extend along a second axis that is offset from said longitudinal axis.
 7. The endoscope of claim 4 wherein the elongated shaft includes a fluid inflow channel communicating with a fluid source.
 8. The endoscope of claim 4 wherein the working channel communicates with an outflow pump.
 9. The endoscope of claim 4 wherein the elongated shaft includes a flow channel communicating with a pressure sensor carried in housing coupled to the shaft.
 10. An endoscope system, comprising: a handle; an endoscope component including an elongated shaft extending from a proximal housing to a distal section that carries an image sensor, wherein the housing is adapted for detachable coupling to the handle; and wherein the shaft extends along a longitudinal axis to an angled section that transitions to said distal section that extend along a second axis that is offset from said longitudinal axis.
 11. The endoscope system of claim 10 wherein the angled section has an axial length ranging from 5 mm to 20 mm.
 12. The endoscope system of claim 10 wherein the distal section has an axial length ranging from 5 mm to 20 mm.
 13. The endoscope system of claim 10 wherein the second axis is offset from the longitudinal axis by at least 1 mm.
 14. The endoscope system of claim 10 wherein the second axis is offset from the longitudinal axis by 1 mm to 8 mm.
 15. The endoscope system of claim 10 wherein the image sensor and a lens is carried in a housing which has a distal housing surface that extend distally beyond an outer thin wall sleeve of the shaft.
 16. The endoscope system of claim 15 wherein said distal housing surface extends distally beyond the thin wall sleeve by 0.2 mm to 2.0 mm.
 17. An endoscope system, comprising: a handle; an endoscope component including an elongated shaft extending from a proximal housing to a working end that carries an image sensor, wherein the housing is adapted for detachable coupling to the handle; and a first electrical connector in the endoscope component adapted to mate with a cooperating second electrical connector in the handle; and inflow and outflow tubing coupled to the endoscope component adapted to provide fluid flows through respect fluid inflow and outflow channels extending through the elongate shaft, wherein the handle includes a recessed channel for receiving the inflow and outflow tubing.
 18. An endoscope system, comprising: a handle; an endoscope component including an elongated shaft extending from a proximal housing to a working end that carries an image sensor, wherein the housing is adapted for detachable coupling to the handle; and a working channel extending from said housing to said working end, wherein a proximal portion of the housing includes exterior surface contours for guiding a tool into said working channel and preventing said tool from contacting the handle.
 19. The endoscope system of claim 18 wherein a first surface contour comprises a trough for receiving a portion of a tool shaft.
 20. The endoscope system of claim 18 wherein a second surface contour comprises a conical shape tapering toward the proximal end of the working channel for directing a tool shaft into said working channel. 